photo by: Sara Shepherd

KU Office of Public Safety patrol vehicle, pictured June 2016

The University of Kansas has appointed a familiar face to the top spot in the school’s Public Safety Office.

Chris Keary, who has been serving as the office’s interim director and chief since Jan. 1, was appointed chief of KU police, the university said Friday in a news release.

Keary took over as interim chief after his predecessor, Ralph Oliver, retired in December 2015.

Keary began his career as a student dispatcher, soon moving into a full-time position and then as a police officer and sergeant, respectively. He was appointed as the assistant chief of police in 1998 and was responsible for day-to-day operations of the office.

Keary said he is honored by the appointment.

“The employees of the KU Public Safety Office strive to provide a safe environment for the KU community, and I look forward to leading them as we continue that effort,” he said.

Alongside Keary’s promotion, Public Safety Captains James Anguiano and Bobby Williams have both been promoted to deputy chief.